KARACHI: Sadaf Shamas’ superb 98 and a late onslaught by Najiha Alvi powered Pakistan to a comprehensive 168-run victory over Zimbabwe in their first women’s One-day International on Monday.

Opting to bat, Pakistan piled up an imposing 330 for five in their allotted 50 overs, before bundling out Zimbabwe for 162 in 36.4 overs.

Sadaf anchored the innings with a fluent 98 off 130 balls, striking 17 fours, while Gull Feroza provided a solid start with a 60-ball 50. The pair laid a strong foundation with a 162-run opening stand.

Sidra Amin then maintained the momentum with a brisk 67 off 59 deliveries, laced with nine boundaries, as Pakistan kept Zimbabwe’s bowlers under pressure through the middle overs.

However, it was Najiha who provided the final flourish, remaining unbeaten on a 30-ball 56, smashing eight fours and a six. Captain Fatima Sana also chipped in with a quickfire 11 not out off just three balls as Pakistan added valuable runs at the death.

For Zimbabwe, Precious Marange was the pick of the bowlers with three wickets for 39 runs, while Kudzai Chigora and Nomvelo Sibanda claimed one wicket each.

Chasing a daunting 331, Zimbabwe never recovered after early setbacks. Fatima struck twice in the opening spell to leave the visitors reeling.

Beloved Biza offered some resistance with a 53 off 53 balls, hitting eight fours, but lacked support from the other end as wickets fell at regular intervals.

Syeda Aroob Shah and Tasmia Rubab claimed two wickets apiece, while Momina Riasat and Nashra Sandhu took one each to wrap up the innings comfortably.

Zimbabwe captain Nomvelo Sibanda’s 17 was the next best contribution as the side failed to build any meaningful partnerships, eventually being dismissed well short of the target.

Published in Dawn, May 5th, 2026